Surrogacy Fraud: The Case of UK Surrogate’s Deceptive Scam

Surrogacy has brought hope to countless families, but with it has come a risk: surrogacy fraud. In a recent case in the UK, a surrogate mother manipulated vulnerable intended parents by faking pregnancy, breaking not only their finances but also their hearts. This surrogacy scam serves as a stark reminder of the importance of caution in the surrogacy process.

The Fraudulent Scheme of Louise Pollard

The central figure in this disturbing case is Louise Pollard, a 28-year-old surrogate mother who deceived intended parents by claiming to be pregnant when she was not. Pollard arranged surrogacies with two couples and faked pregnancies on three separate occasions. For her deceit, Pollard demanded payments from each couple, resulting in a £15,000 loss for her victims.

Key Details of the Scam:

• Pollard initially quoted a fee of £12,000 but later increased it to £35,000, claiming additional costs for rent and living expenses.
• She falsely claimed a miscarriage after intended parents requested proof of pregnancy, thereby evading further questioning.
• Pollard went so far as to forge a doctor’s letter to substantiate her claims, seeking additional funds from a second couple.

Warning Signs of Surrogacy Scams

This case highlights critical red flags in surrogacy scams. Pollard’s knowledge gaps in medical processes and sudden demands for increased payments should have raised suspicion. Intended parents are encouraged to seek professional guidance and verify any medical documentation with licensed reproductive law attorneys. Key fraud indicators include inconsistencies in fees, reluctance to provide medical verification, and unusual payment requests.

Legal Consequences and Sentencing

Upon discovery of Pollard’s fraudulent actions, the Bristol Crown Court sentenced her to three years in prison. During sentencing, Judge Graham Cottle stated, “This case is not solely about financial loss. A desperate couple was completely deceived by you and your lies. Yes, they lost money, but what they lost is far greater—their hopes of having a child were shattered.”

This judgment underlines the gravity of surrogacy fraud and the emotional devastation it brings to hopeful families. Pollard’s actions, labeled by the court as “cruel and heartless,” illustrate the profound impact of such deceit.